gpf

Like it or not, emissions regulations will tighten significantly for all fossil fuelled vehicles. This means more technology, more costs and much much more to go wrong.

With the fall out of dieselgate, many motorists are now opting for petrol. In fact record numbers are switching to petrol and alternatively fueled vehicles as the demonisation of diesel powered vehicles continues to gain momentum.

Unfortunately petrol engines haven’t escaped the emissions crack down. The latest advance in petrol emissions control technology is the GPF or gasoline particulate filter. 

What is a GPF Gasoline Particulate Filter

A GPF (Gasoline Particulate Filter) is an inline exhaust filter designed to capture soot particulates in direct injection petrol engines (GDI). Much like a DPF, it comprises of a honeycomb like filter structure made from a synthetic ceramic material.

As exhaust gasses pass through the filter, soot particles are captured. These filters are highly efficient, capturing in excess of 90% of airborne particulates which would otherwise be released into the atmosphere.

In Germany, theses filters are referred to as Otto particle filter (Ottopartikelfilter or OPF)

How is it different to a DPF

Unlike a DPF, a GPF has a very small capacity for captured soot particulate, 1g compared to around 8g for a typical DPF. In contrast, a GDI engine emits around 30 times less particulate than a diesel engine.

How does a GPF regenerate?

GPF regeneration can only be performed in “non power” conditions,  meaning that regeneration is normally achieved under deceleration. Deceleration increases the amount of oxygen following through the engine and exhaust system. This in turn raises the temperature of the GPF to around 400c – 700c, igniting the soot contained within the filter. 

In conditions where this is not possible, the vehicles engine management systems alters timing causing it to run lean. This “lean” burn increases oxygen and therefore GPF operating temperatures, allowing a regeneration to occur.

Ford Owners – “Exhaust filter limit reached. drive to clean now“.

As per the comments below – we’ve been made aware of issues with Ford owners experiencing issues with their GPF.

We have put together a new article regarding this issue here – https://www.hypermiler.co.uk/gasoline-particulate-filter/how-to-fix-exhaust-filter-limit-reached-drive-to-clean-now-ford-gpf-filter

Do I need to use a GPF additive?

Due to the nature of GPF regeneration, an fuel additive it not required to assist in the cleaning / regeneration of the filter.

How much is a replacement unit?

It’s still very early days for GPFs. We’re hoping that due to the nature of regeneration, failure due to the unit reaching its soot capacity should be relatively rare. However, it is noted that GPF are much more delicate and prone to damage compared to a diesel particulate filter.

Which cars will be fitted with a GPF

So far, the uptake on GPF technology has been rather slow. Mercedes and the VW Group are noted to have rolled out the technology for use in a number of their turbo charged engines. It’s expected that a mass rollout will begin in the next 5 – 7 years.

GPF and Euro 6

With the introduction of euro 6c emissions controls, vehicles will be subject to “real world” driving conditions in order to record realistic emissions results. The particulate limits for petrol engines will also tighten significantly.

It’s hoped that this will force manufacturers into employing new innovative ways in reducing emissions outside of “lab” conditions. A GPF will be just another tool in their arsenal to ensure they meet these new limits. We really don’t want another emissions scandal!

Let’s hear from you

What are your thoughts on Gasoline Particulate Filters? Would this put you off buying a new petrol car? Have you had a GPF fail in your car. Let’s hear from you in the comments below

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